Sanskrit for Beginners

Introduction

This course offers a gentle and engaging introduction to Sanskrit, one of the world’s most ancient and revered languages—celebrated for its rich legacy in literature, philosophy, and spiritual wisdom. Designed for absolute beginners, the course focuses on basic grammar, sentence formation, and simple conversation, while also providing meaningful exposure to Sanskrit’s cultural and literary heritage.

Learners will explore Subhāṣitas (wise sayings), simple stories, and foundational grammar, all carefully selected to spark curiosity and build confidence on the path to Sanskrit literacy.

Course Objectives

• Introduce learners to Sanskrit as a functional and living language
• Develop the ability to read, write, understand, and speak simple Sanskrit
• Explore the Sanskrit alphabet (Varnamālā) and pronunciation
• Teach core grammar concepts including verbs, pronouns, and tenses
• Encourage conversation and sentence formation using real-life contexts
• Familiarize learners with Subhāṣitas, Sanskrit stories, and cultural applications
• Provide a basic understanding of Sanskrit literature and its modern relevance

Course Outcomes

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

• Recognize and write the Devanāgarī script and Sanskrit Varnamala
• Use basic verbs, pronouns, and tenses to form simple sentences
• Participate in beginner-level Sanskrit conversations
• Read and recite simple Subhāṣitas and understand their meanings
• Listen to and comprehend simple Sanskrit stories and texts
• Understand the relevance and use of Sanskrit in daily life and Indian Knowledge Systems
• Develop the confidence to pursue further study in Sanskrit

Course Syllabus

The course is structured into the following modules:

• Introduction to Sanskrit Language & Literature
• Devanāgarī Script & Varnamālā – Pronunciation and Writing Practice
• Sanskrit Vocabulary Building – Everyday words and expressions
• Foundational Grammar Concepts
  • Nouns, Pronouns, and Verbs (with focus on Present Tense)
  • Overview of Tenses – Present, Past, and Future (Lāṭ, Laṅ, Lṛṭ Lakāras)
  • Vibhaktis – Introduction to Cases
  • Basic Sentence Formation
• Conversational Sanskrit – Greetings, Self-Intro, Daily Dialogue Practice
• Reading & Listening Practice –
  • Simple Sanskrit Stories (e.g., adapted Panchatantra tales)
  • Comprehension Exercises
• Subhāṣitas & Proverbs – Meaningful Sayings & Cultural Wisdom
• Time in Sanskrit – Days, Months, Telling Time
• Writing Practice – Short compositions, letters, and personal expressions
• Applications of Sanskrit Today – In Yoga, Ayurveda, and daily expressions
• Course Review & Practice Sessions

Reading List

• Vakya-vyavahara – Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan
• Ruchira- NCERT (Part1,2,3)
• Abhyasavaan Bhava – NCERT

Course Features

• Live Interactive Sessions
  Engage in real-time lectures with faculty and participate in live Q&A discussions

• Flexible Learning
  Access recorded sessions and course materials anytime, at your convenience

• Certificate of Completion
  Receive a certificate upon successful completion of course requirements

*Important Enrollment Notice: Please note that this course requires a minimum of 15 registrations to commence. If the required number of students is not met, enrolled participants will be notified promptly and provided with options for a full refund or alternative courses.